July’s Immigration Amnesty has allowed the departure of 41 persons to date, with the longest over-stayer having been here for over 12 years.
Immigration officials encourage other people who are overstaying or working without valid permits to similarly take advantage of this opportunity to depart the country without fear of prosecution.
Those who have been recorded as departing range in age from six months old to 80 years old. Of the total, 15 were from Jamaica, nine were from the United States, and three each from South Africa, India and Nicaragua. Also, one national of each of the following countries has departed so far: Britain, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guyana, Honduras, Panama and the Philippines.
Only one employer has cancelled a permit so far. However, Deputy Chief Immigration Officer, Enforcement Gary Wong encourages companies employing illegal residents to take advantage of this opportunity.
“This practice may affect the future standing of their companies, as well as their applications to obtain permits,” said Mr. Wong. “There may also be implications relating to their business licences.”
Upon the conclusion of this month’s amnesty, the enforcement section will be working to identify and arrest offenders. Because of the suspected number of work permits of convenience (with no, or irregular work offered by the permit holder) the department will also be checking to ensure that employees’ pension and health insurance premiums have been paid.
Residents and employers are encouraged to take advantage of the remaining days of the amnesty.
For more information, call 244-2028 or visit the Department of Immigration on Grand Cayman or the District Administration Building on Cayman Brac.
